SCCC Launches Alumni Association

By Maydene Yamisha

College Hill Writer

SCCC takes the initiative in assisting alumni with networking opportunities

SCCC Stock Photo

Sussex County Community College in Newton offers a new alumni association to students. 

According to a Feb. 5 press release, the launch of SCCC’s Alumni Association 

will offer students networking opportunities, exclusive events, support, and alumni recognition. 

With the help of Dr. Cory Homer, interim president; Michael Crispino, president of the Alumni Association; Stan Kula, executive director of the Foundation; Wendy Fullem, chief of staff; and Todd Poltersdorf, associate dean of students, this new project was launched. 

This will be the first alumni association for SCCC. 

Homer said, “Michael has done a lot with helping to refine the foundational elements of the alumni association. We are fortunate to have Michael in this role.”

Due to the increasing number of students, it was decided to launch this new project. Homer mentioned that the college is still young and there are more than 11,000 graduates as of this year. 

Because of the rise in graduates, a rise in success with students has also been noted. 

“The inspiration behind the alumni association was that we have fantastic students who graduate, and we never get an opportunity to see or hear from them again,” Homer continues. “This initiative will allow for future alumni networking events, aid in communication with our alumni, and help with engagement between our current students and alumni.”

SCCC Stock Photo

So far, there haven’t been any members added to the association as Crispino is still working on building an executive committee. 

But with 11,000 graduates, it is hopeful to see engagement from students. 

All graduates are eligible for this opportunity. 

Homer said, “Once someone graduates from SCCC, they will be automatically included in the alumni association and eligible for the benefits of being an alumni.” 

Students can also be pleased to hear that there are no payments required to join the association. 

Benefits are still being worked out, but students can expect discounts to any theater performances, the cafeteria, the campus store, future access to different amenities offered on campus, and invitations to career and networking events. 

While some things still need to be tuned out, there is a lot of hope for the future of the alumni association. 

“I am hopeful that we will be able to build stronger alumni engagement, collaborate on strategic initiatives, and continue to promote the mission of the college through the alumni association,” said Homer. 

He continues, “I am excited about the ways the alumni association will enhance the long-term success and sustainability of the college, both in terms of its engagement and ability to support future generations of students.” 

With the increase in graduates, it is hoped that SCCC will take on more projects for the growing school. 

Crispino did not provide comments or any additional details before the deadline.